Minn. Sentencing Guidelines Commission signs off on drug sentencing reform

State leaders have signed off on a plan, years in the making, to reduce the time spent behind bars for first-time drug offenders and better distinguish addicts from potentially violent drug dealers.

The Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission voted 7-3 to overhaul the state’s drug sentencing guidelines, reducing recommended prison sentences for first-time offenders convicted of first-degree drug possession from seven to four years, and sentences for first-degree drug sale from seven to five years.

The commission also changed presumptive prison sentences in second-degree sale and possession cases to probation.

http://www.startribune.com/commission-signs-off-on-drug-sentencing-reform/363877211/